Ralph Anthony Cioffi, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 8, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on December 20, 1929, in Troy, NY, to Carmine Cioffi and Bernadine Marra, Ralph embodied the spirit of adventure and love for nature throughout his life. With a heart as expansive as the mountains he cherished, Ralph was a proud member of the 46ers, having summited all 46 Adirondack mountains in both summer and winter.
A skilled electrician with the New York State Department of Transportation, Ralph dedicated decades to enhancing traffic safety in his community. He was also a passionate educator, sharing his extensive knowledge of hunting and the safe use of firearms as a hunter safety training teacher. His skill as a marksman earned him recognition in numerous shooting competitions, and he relished every moment spent in the great outdoors.
Ralph found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life-a good glass of scotch, a fine cigar, and the warmth of a roaring fire. He would often serenade family and friends with tunes from his harmonica, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. The annual clam steams at "The Bahn" became a treasured tradition where laughter and camaraderie flowed as freely as the clams.
His love for motorcycles was infectious; Ralph delighted in touring the open roads with fellow riders, embracing the freedom and thrill that the journey provided. A voracious reader, he engaged in countless conversations, connecting with people from all walks of life, leaving a lasting impact through his warmth and wisdom.
Ralph is survived by his loving spouse, Rita Cioffi, and his cherished children: Rhea (Matthew) Simpson, Michael (Deborah) Cioffi, Tracey (Adrian) Strack, Melissa (James) Coolidge, Julie (Craig) SantaMaria, and Jennifer (Kevin) Lyon. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Elizabeth Simpson, Eric Simpson, Evan Cioffi, Elliott Cioffi, Jamie Coolidge, Alexis Coolidge, Kyle Coolidge, Nicole Belrose, Brooke SantaMaria, Connor SantaMaria, and Kolby Furnia. In addition, he is remembered fondly by his surviving siblings, Evelyn Manella and Joseph Cioffi, both of Troy, NY.
Ralph was predeceased by his parents; and his siblings: Lucy Cioffi, Jenny White, and Louis Cioffi. His life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and a profound appreciation for the world around him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on March 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Margaret's Church in Wilmington. Prior to this, family and friends will have the opportunity to pay their respects during calling hours at Heidrick-Zaumetzer Funeral Home on March 28, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
The family would like to thank High Peaks Hospice for the wonderful care that they gave to Ralph. In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to High Peaks Hospice, 1247 Dix Ave., Hudson Falls, NY 12839, for this wonderful service.
Services were entrusted to Heidrick-Zaumetzer Funeral Home, PO Box 127, 3 College St., Au Sable Forks, NY 12912.
Friday, March 28, 2025
4:00 - 6:00 pm (Eastern time)
Heidrick-Zaumetzer Funeral Home
Saturday, March 29, 2025
11:00am - 12:00 pm (Eastern time)
St. Margaret's Church
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